EPL: Manchester City confirms signing Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea
2022/2023 Premier League winners, Manchester City have completed the signing of Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea.
The English club on Tuesday, June 27, completed the signing of Croatia midfielder Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea following the loss of captain Ilkay Gundogan.
The treble winners said the 29-year-old had signed a four-year contract after the clubs reportedly agreed an initial fee of £25 million ($32 million), with a potential £5 million in add-ons.
Kovacic joins Pep Guardiola’s side after five years at Chelsea, where he won the Champions League and Europa League and made 221 appearances.
Kovacic isn’t seen as a direct replacement for the outgoing Ilkay Gundogan, but there are some similarities.
That includes the ability to play in multiple positions in the middle, with City Director of Football Txiki Begiristain citing two different roles he can play. Add in the experience the Croatian midfielder has for club and country, and City are delighted with the ‘great signing’ they have made.
Speaking to the club’s website, Kovacic who will wear the number 8 shirt said;
“This is a brilliant move for me, and I cannot wait to get started with City.
“Anyone who has watched this team under Pep knows how good they are – for me, they are the best in the world. The trophies they have won are clear for all to see, but they are also the best footballing side out there. To be joining this squad really is a dream for any footballer.
“I still have plenty of learning and developing to do, and I know under Pep’s management I can become a better player, which is really exciting for me.
“I still have plenty of learning and developing to do, and I know under Pep’s management I can become a better player, which is really exciting for me.
“My plan now is to rest for a few weeks before coming back to Manchester to prepare for the new season. I want to help this club stay at the top and win more trophies.”
Kovacic is City’s first signing of the transfer window and his arrival compensates for the departure of Gundogan, who joined Barcelona on a free transfer on Monday after seven years at the club.
